You can apparently only reapply for ESA if your condition has worsened or you have developed other conditions. She has been diagnosed with two further conditions.

Before applying again, she would like to find an advocate first. She has tried MIND and CAB, but they do not have anyone suitable to help. She is seeking a mental health advocate because her mental health issues are comparatively straightforward -v- her physical health issues, which are complex and are being treated by a number of specialist consultants.

She is based in West London. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Edit: ...suggestions including a paid advocate as I would offer to pay (though not sure she would accept my offer).

Thanks, Boo, and I will PM you tomorrow when I've more time, - but, to clarify, my friend is able to speak for herself; she's perfectly articulate, intelligent, etc - She simply lacks the medical or legal authority necessary to underline her case. Indeed, the fact that she was clean and well-presented, not stinking and ragged at her last assessment was actually cited as evidence that she is fit for work. So she can't win by arguing her case coherently herself, - it would be regarded as evidence that she is fit for work - nor could I argue on her behalf as I am not a doctor or lawyer, i.e. a higher authority.

formerly_IKB wrote:nor could I argue on her behalf as I am not a doctor or lawyer, i.e. a higher authority.

You can with the permission of the court I think.

What I mean is that I am no better qualified to argue than my friend is. We're both laypeople. Both intelligent and literate. There is no court involved - just a form-filling and attending a medical assessment. She needs someone who has some 'expert' experience to guide her and if necessary stand up for her at the medical assessment. I don't have any more experience than she does.

formerly_IKB wrote:nor could I argue on her behalf as I am not a doctor or lawyer, i.e. a higher authority.

You can with the permission of the court I think.

Hang on Hairy, we've not got to court yet. That's a very long way off.

Was she informed she was 'fit for work' less then 28 days ago? If so she can ask for a mandatory reconsideration.

She won't need to express medical jargon or legal terms (at this stage) She just needs to explain how her illnesses affect her when they're at their most chronic. The answers don't need to be lengthy or elaborate during the assessment - they just need to match up with the information she has already put on the form/letter. The assessor has access to the notes on their computers - it's wise to photocopy the ESA form before posting it off.Her GP will be able to fill in the blanks when/if the assessors ask for more detail.

The advocate is a prompt as well as a vital support tool. I find that clients who attend assessments alone are less likely to succeed in their claim as going alone demonstrates they don't need prompting or support. Support networks are also able to confirm she is experiencing difficulties with day to day tasks. This is what assesssors are awarding points for. And she needs 15points to qualify for ESA benefit. Check out this site for the ESA descriptors https://www.sense.org.uk/content/esa-de ... ility-work

What is written on her fitness to work note (formerly sick note) by her GP may also back up her claim as to why she unable to work at present.Is she still getting these notes from her GP?

I've already made some relevant points regarding which areas to concentrate on for (hopefully) maximum points. I'll look out for your pm.